Police are asking cannabis growers if they fancy Christmas in prison

Police in Rotherham are offering a harsh warning to anyone thinking of taking up cannabis growing as a part-time career after two local men are found guilty and sentenced to time behind bars.

Richard Scholey, 43, from Rowms Lane, Swinton, Rotherham was found guilty of two separate counts of producing cannabis plants at Sheffield Crown Court and sentenced to three years in prison.

Richard Powell, 52, from Doncaster Road, Wath, was also found guilty of production of cannabis after six plants were seized. He received a 154 days prison sentence.

Acting Police Sergeant Brett Thompson said: ”Here we have a profound warning sent out by the courts to individuals who grow large quantities of cannabis in recent months.

“These are cases where the individuals involved have received custodial sentences, where in the past they may have been dealt with by means of a none custodial sentence for a conviction of a similar nature.

“It appears that the courts have accepted that individuals who are growing these plants could very likely have benefitted financially by this respective crop of cannabis.

“South Yorkshire Police are working closely with the community on numerous intelligence reports within the Wentworth North area, linked with cannabis production.

“Our warning to these people who flout the law is - It is not a case of whether we catch you, it is simply a case of when! Once caught, these individuals can expect a lengthy jail term.

“South Yorkshire Police’s message to people involved or thinking about making a ‘fast buck’ and growing cannabis is - Do you fancy spending Christmas in prison?”

If anyone has any information regarding anyone growing cannabis they are urged to call police on 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555 111.